Nikorn warns House committee PM summons may breach law
MP Nikorn Chamnong warns the House committee's 7-0 vote to summon the PM using the Power of Inquiry Act may exceed legal limits and violate ethics.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Nikorn Chamnong questions the legality of the committee's 7-0 PM summons vote
- Warns that invoking Section 13 of the Power of Inquiry Act may exceed legal limits
- Notes the Interior Minister ordered coordination, but the chief was helping flood victims
- Stresses that exercising state authority requires clear and concrete evidence
On November 8, 2026, Nikorn Chamnong, a party-list MP from the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed serious concerns regarding a recent resolution by the House of Representatives Committee on Legal Affairs, Justice and Human Rights. The committee voted 7 to 0 to proceed with Section 13 of the Power of Inquiry Act B.E. 2568 against the Prime Minister, following allegations that the Prime Minister or the Interior Minister failed to order the Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration to testify before the committee.
Nikorn stated that enforcing this section to summon the Prime Minister over this specific issue could raise legal validity concerns. Furthermore, it risks violating the 2020 Code of Ethics for Members of the House of Representatives and Committee Members. The established facts show that the Interior Minister had already instructed officials to coordinate the Director-General's appearance.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
However, the Director-General was unable to attend the meeting due to urgent duties assisting citizens affected by severe floods, and had formally submitted a letter explaining the necessity of his absence. Proceeding with Section 13 under these circumstances could therefore represent an overreach of the committee's legal authority.
"Such actions may pose legal validity issues and could potentially breach the code of ethics for members of the House of Representatives and committees."
Nikorn Chamnong
Nikorn further emphasized that exercising legislative powers must be grounded in clear evidence and a comprehensive review of facts. Overstepping boundaries could damage the institutional credibility of the House of Representatives.
Additional Context: The Power of Inquiry Act empowers parliamentary committees to summon individuals or request documents. However, its enforcement must respect administrative necessities during national crises, such as natural disasters where executive officials must prioritize public rescue operations over committee hearings.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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